Principal Strategist

Mintel; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading market intelligence firm is seeking a Principal Strategist, Innovation in London. The role involves advising CPG clients, delivering high-impact presentations, and leading trend analysis. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of experience in research or marketing intelligence and a strong background in product innovation. The position offers a hybrid work model with travel based on client needs.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in research or marketing intelligence, focusing on CPG products.
• Proven ability to identify and execute innovation opportunities.
• Confident communicator with evidence-backed perspectives.

Responsibilities

• Advise global CPG clients on innovation strategies.
• Deliver workshops and high-impact presentations.
• Lead trend forecasting and custom analysis.

Skills

10+ years in research, strategic insights, or marketing intelligence

Experience in CPG product innovation

Confident communication abilities

Proven track record in market trend forecasting

Team collaboration

Job description

Principal Strategist, Innovation

London, United Kingdom

Are you a visionary in CPG innovation with a passion for shaping the future of consumer products? Mintel is seeking a Principal Strategist, Innovation to lead the charge in delivering transformative insights and foresight to our global clients.

About the Role

As Mintel’s authority on CPG Innovation (Beauty and / or Food & Drink), you’ll be at the forefront of market influence and client impact. This role blends deep expertise in consumer and market dynamics with strategic foresight to guide brands through the innovation lifecycle—from white space identification to product launch and beyond.

You’ll be a trusted advisor, a thought leader, and a public-facing voice for Mintel, driving conversations that shape the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Engagement & Insight Activation (70%)
• Deliver high-impact presentations, workshops, and webinars
• Advise global CPG clients on future-facing innovation strategies
• Lead trend forecasting and custom analysis engagements
• Industry Influence & Organizational Impact (20%)
• Represent Mintel at conferences and in media commentary
• Collaborate with PR and Marketing to amplify brand visibility
• Mentor strategists and content creators
• Content Development & Strategic Foresight (10%)
• Create proprietary, forward-looking innovation content
• Identify strategic white space opportunities across categories
• Enhance syndicated content with deep analytical foresight

What Success Looks Like

• Strong client retention and growth through strategic engagements
• Elevated Mintel brand presence in the innovation space
• Personal recognition as a thought leader in CPG innovation

Who You Are

• Experienced: 10+ years in research, strategic insights, or marketing intelligence, with a focus on CPG product innovation
• Innovative: Proven track record of identifying and executing white space opportunities
• Credible: Confident communicator with evidence-backed perspectives and objection-handling finesse
• Visionary: Skilled in forecasting market trends and crafting compelling narratives
• Collaborative: A team player who thrives across Commercial, Consulting, Insights, and Marketing functions
• Proactive: You build your brand alongside Mintel’s, driving growth through client success
• Networker – at ease networking across both the market research and CPG innovation industries.

Location

Hybrid (2 days / week in London office) with frequent travel based on client needs